The return-to-office wave is here. With major companies like Amazon, Apple, and Salesforce mandating employees spend three, four, or even five days a week in the office starting in 2025, proximity to Manhattan has quickly become a top priority. For families who moved farther afield during the last few years, the idea of long commutes—or even flights—is no longer sustainable.
“We’re hearing from more and more clients who want to make their way back to the NYC area. But this time, they’re looking for towns that check every box,” says Patti Natiss, Head of National Strategy and Emerging Markets at Suburban Jungle. “They need to be closer to their office, but don’t want to give up the space, charm, and community they’ve gotten used to over the last few years.”
But here’s the good news: the NYC suburbs have options. And now, as families reimagine their routines and begin planning their move closer to the city, the focus is on finding communities with seamless commutes that make returning to the office feel less like a chore and more like an opportunity to embrace suburban life at its best.
CHECK OUT OUR COMMUTING GUIDES
“People who relocated far from NYC over the past few years are reaching out more and more,” Patti says. “With new mandates to be back in the office three, four, or five days a week, there’s a major movement back to the suburban towns close to NYC. Commuting is now top of the list of priorities, and we’re helping clients navigate their journey back closer to the city—and to find the right town to call home for their families.”
The Commute: What to Consider
Choosing the right town is more than picking the one closest to your office. Your commute will be a major part of your daily routine, so it’s worth doing your homework to make sure it works for your lifestyle. Here’s what to think about as you narrow your search:
1. Is There a Train Station in Town?
For many families, a train station within walking or biking distance is a top priority. Towns with their own stations often feel more connected and convenient, giving you the flexibility to get to and from Manhattan easily without needing to drive miles to catch a train.
A station in town can also mean less time juggling drop-offs or coordinating rides, allowing you to make the most of your mornings and evenings. And if there isn’t one in town, make sure you have a reliable (and nearby) mode of transportation to get you into and out of the city on work days.
2. How Reliable Are the Connections?
Not all train stations are created equal. Look at the specifics:
- Is the station on a direct line to your office?
- Will you need to transfer to another train, subway, or bus?
- How seamless is the connection?
Even if you’re used to commuting, a quick check of schedules and transfer times can make a big difference in how your mornings feel. A direct train or an easy connection can save time—and a lot of stress.
3. How Frequent Are the Trains During Peak Hours?
If you’re back in the office three or more days a week, the frequency of trains or buses during peak commuting times is a big deal. Does your town offer express trains during the morning and evening rush hours? Or will you need to wait 30 minutes—or longer—between departures?
Frequent service gives you more flexibility, especially if your schedule changes unexpectedly. And remember, express trains or buses aren’t just about saving time—they’re often less crowded and more comfortable, which brings us to…
4. Comfort Matters
Commuting isn’t just about the clock; it’s also about the quality of the experience. A one-hour express train where you can sit back, relax, and read might be far better than a cramped, standing-room-only 35-minute ride. Think about how you want to spend your commute and weigh your options accordingly.
5. What’s the Parking Situation?
If you’ll be driving to a train station or park-and-ride, be sure and understand what parking looks like.
- Does the town offer permit parking at the station or park-and-ride lots?
- Is parking competitive or readily available?
- Are there long waitlists for permits?
Parking can make or break your morning routine. Towns with ample, easily accessible parking—or shuttle services to the station—can take the edge off your daily commute.
Why Now Is the Time to Plan
Return-to-office mandates are just around the corner, and competition for homes in the most commuter-friendly suburbs is already ramping up. Families are starting their searches early, aiming to lock in towns that offer both seamless access to the city and the suburban lifestyle they’ve grown to love.
At Suburban Jungle, we specialize in helping families navigate this journey. Whether you’re prioritizing commute times, lifestyle amenities, or long-term goals, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
For more insights, visit SJ’s New York City suburbs section and the New York City blog page on our website.
Let’s find your new hometown together! Schedule a free initial strategy call today.
